1996 Ford Ranger P0351 and P0352 Fault Codes: Hard to Restart After Engine Shutdown
I own a 1996 Ford Ranger that is showing both P0351 and P0352 diagnostic trouble codes. The truck starts and runs normally but shuts off unexpectedly, making it difficult to restart. I've already replaced both coil packs, cleaned the throttle body, and performed a full system check—yet the issue persists and the codes remain active when scanned. Based on this behavior, I suspect a wiring or grounding problem related to the ignition system, particularly within the coil pack circuit.
When the key is on but the engine is off, use a voltmeter to check for approximately 0.5 volts on the battery side of each coil wire. Only one terminal per coil should show this reading. Connect the voltmeter's negative lead to battery ground and test the positive lead against the coil connector. If one prong in the plug supplies power, it indicates a good connection; if not, check for continuity or short circuits. To troubleshoot further, gently wiggle each wire while the engine is off—observe if performance improves. If not, inspect the ground side of the coil connector (the other wire). The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) sends a ground signal, so to test this, connect the voltmeter's positive lead to the battery positive and negative to the non-powered wire at the coil plug. Keep the prong securely in place and start the engine—watch for voltage fluctuations. If no flicker occurs, it suggests a short circuit or potential PCM-related issue.